Just one week after revealing a groundbreaking new electric SUV, Kia has decided to show off its next EV, dubbed the EV5. The Kia Concept EV5 previews a smaller crossover model that will slot below the recently-revealed Kia EV9 and the popular EV6 (even though the EV5 looks larger). As we've said, automakers need to rethink their EV names. Kia's designers created an "Opposites United" design philosophy, which incorporates conflicting influences of nature and modernity. This is on full display with a new color called Iceberg matte green.

Up front, the EV5 wears a new form of Kia's Digital Tiger Face grille with Star Map signature lighting. Like the EV9 and the gas-powered Telluride, the overall shape is boxy with sculpted lines and squared edges. Though these elements will likely be toned down for production, 21-inch wheels, and a roof spoiler give off a rugged and aggressive demeanor.

The interior looks fabulous with lots of contrasting materials, a large connected display, minimal buttons, and a flat load floor for a more spacious feeling. Kia even experimented with plant-based materials such as seaweed extract and up-cycled PET bottles on the seats, doors, dashboard, and headliner. We imagine the cabin won't look this good when the EV5 reaches production, but given how close the EV9 looks compared to its concept version, there is no reason to doubt Kia's designers.

Those rear-hinged doors will almost certainly be dropped on the final version, but the concept previews a potential swivel feature for the seats, allowing them to pivot outward towards the doors. This is also technically a three-row crossover with a rear-facing jump seat, much like a Mercedes or Volvo station wagon. There's even a pop-out table a la the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

Kia didn't share any details on the powertrain, but we imagine it will share a lot in common with the EV6 and EV9, including the e-GMP architecture. The EV6 currently offers a 58.0 kWh and a 77.4 kWh battery pack, the latter of which enables up to 310 miles of range. Perhaps the EV5 will boast a similar driving distance. Kia says the EV5 will be released to the Chinese market first later this year.

"Kia America has made no official announcement regarding the EV5," a Kia spokesperson told CarBuzz. So it's unclear if we will get it in the US.